The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

The Legislative Council Bills Committee on the National Security (Legislative Provisions) Bill now invites members of the public and interested parties to express their views on the Bill.

The Bill, published in the Gazette on 14 February 2003 and introduced into the Legislative Council on 26 February 2003, seeks to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law. The Bill proposes to provide for -

(a) the offences of treason, subversion, secession and sedition;

(b) the prohibition of unauthorized disclosure of certain official information;

(c) the proscription of certain organizations if it is necessary in the interests of national security and is proportionate for such purpose;

(d) the power of entry, search, seizure, detention and removal by the police without warrant for the investigation of treason, subversion, secession, sedition and handling seditious publication;

(e) the election of trial by jury in respect of sedition by inciting violent public disorder, handling seditious publication and any of the offences of unlawful disclosure;

(f) the removal of existing time limit for prosecution of offences; and

(g) related, incidental and consequential amendments.

Chaired by Hon IP Kwok-him, the Bills Committee has scheduled another meeting on 3 May 2003 (Saturday) from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm to receive views from interested organizations and individuals on the Bill.

Interested organizations and individuals are invited to submit their views in writing to the Clerk to the Bills Committee. Those who wish to make oral representation to the Bills Committee at the above meeting are invited to indicate so in writing to the Clerk to the Bills Committee on or before 25 April 2003 (Friday).

The relevant address, telephone and fax numbers, and e-mail address are as follows: